Likaistens

Likaistens is a theoretical position in moral and political philosophy that argues for equal moral status and equal consideration of all human beings in normative decision-making. The term builds on the root lika meaning "equal" in Scandinavian languages and conveys the idea of sameness in moral worth across persons, regardless of attributes like race, gender, or social role. In its weak form, Likaistens holds that individuals deserve equal basic rights and equal concern, while allowing differential treatment when it is necessary to prevent harms or secure comparable freedoms for others. In its strong form, it claims that all morally relevant properties require identical consideration, implying substantial limits on distinctions that affect opportunities, recognition, or outcomes.

Proponents claim it offers a rigorous standard against discrimination and a clear baseline for policy evaluation, affecting debates on welfare, education, and criminal justice. Critics argue that strict equality of consideration can conflict with personal responsibility, liberty, or incentives, and that some degree of misalignment between effort and reward may be necessary for social cooperation.

In practice, discussions around Likaistens influence egalitarian theory, sufficiency-based approaches, and universal welfare proposals. It is often contrasted with utilitarian, libertarian, and desert-based frameworks.

See also: Egalitarianism, Moral status, Equality before the law.